Bins in Horsham Park have been sealed off with ‘immediate effect’ to tackle reports of a rat problem.

Horsham District Council said open topped bins in the park had been shut off and replaced after it received reports of a rodent issue in the area.

The bins have been sealed off in Horsham Park due to a 'rat problem'

The Council’s Parks and Countryside team have been working with pest control experts and will be introducing larger lidded bins in a bid to combat the problem.

Baiting is also said to be taking place in certain areas of the park over the coming weeks.

The council is urging residents to keep using the new bins and not litter in the park. A spokesman said: “In response to reports of rat problems in Horsham Park, the Council’s Parks and Countryside team have worked in collaboration with pest control experts to address the situation.

“With immediate effect, open-topped bins in the park will be temporarily sealed off and larger lidded bins will be provided. Baiting will take place in affected areas.

“The council is committed to tackling this problem to ensure the health and safety of park visitors. In the meantime, visitors are urged not to drop litter on the ground but to use the bins provided.”